Some petrol stations in Slovakia have begun limiting fuel purchases after a surge in demand, with drivers increasingly filling containers and stockpiling supplies amid rising prices.
The network Dalioil, which operates 45 filling stations across the country, says it has recorded a sharp increase in demand in recent days, particularly for diesel, according to broadcaster Markiza.
At one of its stations in the village of Ludanice, Nitra Region, diesel was temporarily unavailable on Wednesday after supplies were exhausted. A notice posted at the pump informed customers that the fuel had run out.
Photos shared on social media show similar warnings and signs introducing refuelling limits at some stations.
Dalioil’s marketing manager, Sona Horalova, said the growing demand was linked to rising fuel prices and customers buying unusually large quantities. She added some drivers were not only filling their vehicles but also large containers, creating additional strain on deliveries.
“In recent days we have seen increased interest in fuels across Slovakia, especially diesel,” she said. “Given our limited supplies from distributors, we are adjusting our logistics and taking operational steps to meet customers’ needs as much as possible.”
Dalioil has introduced temporary limits on how much fuel each customer can buy at certain locations. The company said the measure was intended to ensure that available fuel could be distributed more fairly among drivers.
According to the company, the shortages are mostly localised and caused by logistical pressure rather than a nationwide lack of fuel. (The Slovak Spectator)